mAY/June 2012 - The American Chestnut Foundation

Summit Highlights
Choose From Four Great Program Tracks
Chestnut Genetics and Breeding Track
Welcome to the world of chestnut science! Workshops on chestnut genetics and breeding will
explore the history of backcross breeding and look at recent advances in genetic and traditional
breeding techniques. Other workshops will highlight the blight fungus, examine the viruses that
cause hypovirulence, and present the current research on ink disease. The workshops will be
followed by a panel discussion with the presenters.
Culture and History of Chestnuts Track
American chestnuts have a rich and detailed history in North America. Our speakers will address
the environmental history of the American chestnut over the past 20,000 years and discuss how
American chestnut trees and products were intricately woven into the culture of the Southern
Appalachians. The workshops will be followed by a panel discussion with the presenters.
Chestnut Ecology and Silvics Track
Curious about what’s happening with chestnut restoration This is your track! Speaker topics
include an update on U.S. Forest Service test plantings, utilizing chestnuts to restore damaged
mine lands, the historical role and future benefits for wildlife in chestnut reforestation, as well as
examining how chestnuts will adapt to climate changes.
Practical Skills Track
Newcomers with a passion for learning about locating, growing, and tending chestnuts will enjoy
these hands-on sessions of chestnut identification, identifying and treating common chestnut
pests, and a do-it-yourself session on planting chestnuts. Attendees will have an opportunity to
learn from chestnut experts.
Look for a Full Summit Schedule in the Next Issue of the Journal
Accommodations
Reserve rooms now by calling Crowne Plaza Resort at 888-233-9527 or visit
https://resweb.passkey.com/go/ACF2012OCT.
Rooms start at $139.00 per night. To receive these special room rates, let them know that you are attending the
American Chestnut Summit. If you are a Federal employee please contact The American Chestnut Foundation
at 828-281-0047 for reservations.
www.ACF.org | The Journal Of The American Chestnut Foundation 13